Friends, we made it – December 31, 2021. I can hardly believe it. This is the time where we start to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the next year. I want to provide some tips on making and keeping your resolution(s).
First things first…. pick the right resolution! Do not pick a resolution that is based on what someone else (or society) is telling you to do or change.
Your resolution goals should be SMART. The acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time – bound. Let’s walk through this:
SPECIFIC – Your resolution should be very clear, not vague. It should be a concrete goal. For example, instead of saying ‘I want to lose weight.’ Rephrase it to say I want to lose 20 pounds within the next 6 months. This will allow you to measure your progress along the way. It’s hard to track progress against the vague goal of ‘I want to lose weight.’
MEASURABLE - If your goal relates to a number, it’s very easy to track. However, some resolutions are more challenging to track. For instance, say your goal is to stop being late for work every day. This will require you to log progress into a journal or make notes on your phone. You will be able to see the trends over time.
ATTAINABLE – Your resolution goal must be attainable. If you try to make too big of a change, too quickly, it will leave you frustrated and feeling as if you failed. Let’s use weight as an example, as it is among the top resolutions made every year. For example, you resolve to lose 45 lbs. in one month. The recommended weight loss per week is 2 lbs. If you lose an average of 2 lbs. per week, it will take around 5 ½ months to complete your goal. The math shows that the original goal of losing 45 lbs. in one month is not achievable. Setting the goal to lose 8 lbs. in one month is a more achievable goal.
RELEVANT – Is this the right goal for you? Are you making it for the right reasons? Your resolution should be something that truly matters to you. Give your resolution some thought, make sure it is of substance and importance to you.
TIME - BOUND – The time that you have set for your goal must be realistic. That means giving yourself enough time to do it with checkpoints along the way. This will allow you to focus on the small wins as you gradually progress. Slow productive progress leads to success.
Also, it is always helpful to have an accountability partner. Share your goals with someone that is not afraid to call you out and will hold you accountable. That person can be a spouse, friend, family member, etc. Here are a few tips on choosing an accountability partner:
- Find someone who is more disciplined than you are.
- Choose a partner you would not want to disappoint.
- Find a partner who has the time to invest in your goals.
Lastly, write your resolution down on paper. I am often reminded of an excerpt of Habakkuk 2:2 ‘Write the vision and make it plain’ There is something very permanent about writing things down. Your resolution is important. Write it down.
And that’s it friends. Happy New Years’ Eve. Thank you for supporting Willow and Queen. Take care of yourself and each other. Talk to you in 2022!
If you’re still looking for a planner, we have a few more in stock and on sale as a part of our 2021 Year End Sale. Shop now!
Comments
Great Read🥰